di ston we mek fayv bin de shayn ɛn i bin klia, i bin gɛt plɛnti kɔla, dɛn kɔl am oniks; di ston we mek siks na bin lɛkɛ wɛn brawn ɛn rɛd miks, dɛn kɔl am rubi; di ston we mek sɛvin na bin yala, dɛn kɔl am kwɔts; di ston we mek et na bin grin, dɛn kɔl am bɛril; di ston we mek nayn na bin layt yala, dɛn kɔl am topaz; di ston we mek tɛn bin gɛt yala-grin kɔla, dɛn kɔl am kri so prayz; di ston we mek ilɛvin na bin dip blu, dɛn kɔl am jasint; di ston we mek twɛlv na bin dip rɛd, dɛn kɔl am amitist.
What Does This Mean?
This verse describes the twelve gemstones that decorate the foundation of the new Jerusalem, each representing a different apostle or tribe of Israel. It's part of John's vision in Revelation.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a really special city made for God and it has a big wall around it. This wall is like a necklace with twelve pretty stones on it. Each stone is different, just like how each of your friends are special in their own way!
Historical Background
The Book of Revelation was written by John the Apostle towards the end of his life when he was exiled on Patmos around 95 AD. It was addressed to seven churches in Asia Minor and describes John's visions, which include a lot about the future.
Living It Out Today
This verse can remind us that each person is unique and has their own place in God’s kingdom. Just like the special stones on the foundation of Jerusalem, we all bring our unique qualities to make up the body of Christ.
Topics
heavenly visionsdivine revelationapostlesnew Jerusalemgemstones in scripturefoundation stones
These gemstones symbolize the beauty and richness of the new Jerusalem, reflecting God’s glory. They also represent the twelve tribes or apostles, highlighting their unique roles in God's kingdom.
Why are there twelve stones specifically mentioned?
Twelve is a significant number in Biblical times, often representing completeness and unity, such as the twelve tribes of Israel or the twelve apostles of Jesus. Each stone thus symbolizes an aspect of this completeness.
How can we apply this to our lives today?
We can understand that just like these stones have unique properties, each person has a distinct role in God’s plan. This encourages us to appreciate and value the diversity within the church community.
Where else are gemstones mentioned in the Bible?
Gemstones are also mentioned in Exodus 28:17-20 (the breastplate of the high priest) and Ezekiel 28:13, among other places. They often symbolize beauty, purity, and God’s glory.